10 free (or almost free) things to do with kids in Boston this March.
March in Boston can be a tricky month to navigate. It’s cold for the beach, but getting too warm for sledding, and somehow the most expensive month for indoor entertainment. The good news is that there are plenty of free (or nearly free) things to do with kids in Boston this month. Here are some excellent activities the whole family will enjoy that won’t drain your wallet this month.
1. Boston Family Days – Free Museum Access
Cost: FREE
When: First and second Sunday of every month!
This is the best-kept secret in Boston. All Boston students (PreK-12) and two guests get FREE admission to major museums and attractions on the first two Sundays of each month.
Participating institutions:
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Museum of Science
- New England Aquarium
- Franklin Park Zoo
- Institute of Contemporary Art
- Boston Children’s Museum
- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- JFK Presidential Library
- Museum of African American History
How it works: Boston Public School students are automatically enrolled. Everyone else must register at boston.gov. You’ll get a pass emailed to you before each weekend.
Parent tip: Popular spots like the Museum of Science fill up fast. Pre-register when possible!
2. Boston Public Library Exploration
Cost: FREE
The main library in Copley Square isn’t just for books. The children’s section hosts story times, activities, etc. Plus the building itself is gorgeous, and perfect for an architecture walk with older kids.
Don’t miss: Check the events calendar for free kids’ programs throughout March.
3. Arnold Arboretum – Spot Signs of Spring
Cost: FREE
March is when the Arnold Arboretum starts waking up. Take a family walk to spot the earliest spring blooms, returning birds, and budding trees. It’s 281 acres of free outdoor exploration and one of the best things to do with kids in Boston when you want fresh air without spending money.
Learning angle: Bring a notebook and have kids sketch what they observe. It’s hands-on science in action.
4. Charles River Esplanade Walk or Bike Ride
Cost: FREE (not including bike rental if you don’t have bikes)
The Esplanade is perfect for a March day when it’s too nice to be inside but too chilly for the playground. Walk, bike, or scooter along the river. Playgrounds dot the path when kids want to take a quick break. This is truly an activity that will last all day!
Parent bonus: Grab coffee at nearby Tatte Bakery & Cafe!
5. Free Thursdays at the ICA
Cost: FREE
When: Every Thursday, 5-9pm
The Institute of Contemporary Art offers free admission every Thursday evening. It’s a great option for families with older kids interested in modern art.
Why evenings work: Less crowded than weekend days, and it feels like a special outing.
6. Castle Island and Fort Independence
Cost: FREE
Walk around Castle Island, explore the historic fort (tours available seasonally), and watch planes take off from Logan Airport. Bring binoculars for plane spotting!
Food tip: Grab takeout from Sullivan’s and have a picnic if the weather cooperates.
7. Harvard Museum of Natural History
Cost: FREE for MA residents
When: Sundays 9am-12pm and Wednesdays 3-5pm
Dinosaurs, minerals, and the famous Glass Flowers exhibit. This Cambridge museum offers free admission for Massachusetts residents during specific hours and on specific days.
8. Boston Fire Museum
Cost: FREE (donations appreciated)
Located in a restored 1891 firehouse, this small museum showcases antique fire engines, equipment, and Boston firefighting history. Perfect for younger kids obsessed with fire trucks.
Hours: Saturday afternoons – check ahead as hours vary.
9. Maple Sugaring Programs
Cost: FREE to $10
March is maple sugaring season in New England. Many nature centers offer free or low-cost programs where kids can see sap collection, learn the process, and taste fresh syrup.
Why it’s worth it: It’s uniquely March, educational, and delicious.
Bonus: Free Resource Most Parents Don’t Know About
Your Boston Public Library card gets you FREE passes to dozens of museums and attractions. You can reserve one pass per museum every 30 days!
How: Go to your library’s website, log in with your card number, and reserve museum passes. They go fast, so book early!
Make March Memorable Without the Price Tag
You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to keep kids entertained this March. With so many free and low-cost things to do with kids in Boston, you can fill your calendar without emptying your wallet.
Looking for a school that values hands-on learning and exploration? At Delphi Academy of Boston, we believe learning happens through experience, not just textbooks. Our students regularly take field trips around Boston to observe, explore, and connect classroom learning to the real world. Learn more about our approach or schedule a tour to see hands-on education in action.